Delaware GOP Calls for Clarity on Representation for District 20 Amid Representative Parker Selby’s Absence
DOVER, DE – Today, Delaware GOP Chairman Julianne Murray and Sussex County Republican Committee Chairman Daniel Willis issued a letter to Speaker of the House Melissa Minor-Brown, Majority Leader Kerri Evelyn Harris, and Majority Whip Edward Osienski, urging action to address the prolonged absence of Representative Stell Parker Shelby of Delaware’s 20th Representative District. The letter, written on behalf of the district’s 23,201 registered voters—7,820 Republicans, 8,524 Democrats, and 6,857 third-party voters—highlights the significant impact of Representative Parker Selby’s absence on her constituents and the legislative process.
The Delaware GOP emphasized that their concern stems not from partisanship but from a commitment to ensuring all Delawareans receive the representation they deserve. Representative Parker Selby, whose health and well-being remain a priority for her constituents and the state’s 209,367 Republicans, has been unable to assume her duties this legislative session. She has not been sworn in, assigned to committees, or attended Joint Finance Committee meetings, leaving the 20th District without a voice in the Delaware House of Representatives for nearly half of the session.
“We sincerely hope for Representative Parker Selby’s full and speedy recovery,” said Chairman Murray. “However, the people of the 20th District—regardless of party affiliation—deserve clarity on when they can expect active representation. This is about fairness and fulfilling the promise of our democratic system.”
The letter also acknowledges the burden placed on State Senator Russ Huxtable, who has been left to handle constituent advocacy alone during this period. The GOP argues that the lack of dual representation in the General Assembly undermines the rights of District 20 residents and calls for an update on Representative Parker Selby’s condition and timeline for return—or a plan to ensure the district’s representation if her absence persists.
“We are not here to cast blame,” said Chairman Willis. “Our focus is on the 23,201 voters who are currently voiceless in Dover. They deserve answers, and they deserve action.”
The Delaware GOP has requested a response from House leadership and remains committed to working constructively to address this issue. Copies of the letter were also sent to Minority House Leader Timothy Dukes and Minority House Whip Jeff Spiegelman.
The full letter from Delaware GOP Chairman, Julianne Murray and Sussex County Republican is available by clicking below: